Property Transactions likely to slowdown.

The outlook for the UK property market according to certain analysts is looking somewhat unpredictable at present, mainly due to the uncertainty surrounding the EU referendum vote set for 23rd June.

Most recent polls give the “Remain” a lead over the “Leave”, however it is close and with a fair number of undecided voters it could still go either way, making a ‘Brexit” a real possibility, the immediate effect to that no one can really know, however as markets do not like indecision we may see a slowdown in activity from anytime now.

The Bank of England is consumed with preparing contingency plans for Britain to leave the EU, according to the FT in the days leading up to the June 23 poll, the Bank will hold additional auctions of sterling to ensure the banking system has sufficient funds to operate in a potentially chaotic moment.

George Osborne has suggested interest rates will rise if the pound slumps, bringing a bout of inflation and making households worse off.

Estate Agents could see falling transaction volumes over the next couple of months and this could be very bad news for the new style hybrid online agents like Purplebricks who are still heavily committed to advertsing costs and who are depending heavily on sales growth to enable them to move into profitability, which the company has forcast for next year.

Traditional High street agents are accustomed to such fluctuations in the property market, they will adapt to conditions as they have always done,  however this will probably be the first test for the hybrid online agent as to how they will adapt in a slowdown.

 

 

 

Allen Walkey

Highly experienced businessman with a successful career in property sales and investment both in the UK and abroad. Now a freelance writer and blogger for the property and Investment Industry, keeping readers up-to-date with changes and events in a rapidly changing world.

You May Also Enjoy

Estate Agent Talk

Roller Garage Doors: 7 Essential Buying Tips.

Roller garage doors vary in quality, design, and the components used. Recognising these variations is essential when making a purchase, as it ensures you choose a product that provides long-term benefits. Here are seven key factors to consider: 1. Environmental Impact For superior insulation, sectional garage doors may be a better option, even though roller…
Read More
Breaking News

Glenigan Construction Index: Pockets of regional resilience, do little to offset faltering confidence

The value of underlying work starting on-site during the three months to February decreased 6% and remained 17% below 2024 levels as activity remains relatively stagnant Lowered expectations on economic recovery dent residential construction, with starts down 10% on the preceding three months, slashed by 14% against 2024 figures Non-residential project starts decreased 2% against…
Read More
Home and Living

How to Create a Stylish and Comfortable Home Office

Creating a stylish and comfortable home office is essential for productivity and well-being. Here are key considerations to design a workspace that is both functional and inspiring:​D 1. Select an Appropriate Location Choose a quiet area in your home with minimal distractions. If a separate room isn’t available, consider converting a nook or unused space…
Read More
Breaking News

Zoopla Rental Market Report: Rents rising at lowest level for 3.5 years

Upcoming reforms in the rental market will limit new investment and the number of homes for rent Rents rising at lowest level for 3.5 years as Zoopla warns upcoming rental reforms will continue to limit rental supply   Average UK rents for new lets are three per cent higher over the last year, down from…
Read More
Estate Agent Talk

Commonhold White Paper – Thoughts from the Industry

The sale of new leasehold flats in England and Wales is to be banned under Labour’s plan to end the  ‘feudal’ system. Labour wants to switch to Scotland’s commonhold system There are around 5 million leaseholders in England and Wales. Under commonhold, each flat owner would own the freehold of their home, but also have…
Read More
Breaking News

Greenpeace Ruling Exposes UK Government Policy

In January 2025, Greenpeace brought a collective action against the Dutch state for failing to comply with a 2018 European Court of Justice ruling on nutrient neutrality. An appeal is expected: however, as the UK Government has adopted the same ‘tax builders for pollution others cause’ approach to reducing nutrient pollution, it may find itself…
Read More